SATELLITE REMOTE-SENSING FOR MARINE POLLUTION INVESTIGATIONS

Over the past decade there has been an explosion of interest in remote sensing of marine pollution. This interest has resulted in the development of a diverse range of appropriate methods and techniques, but remote sensing has yet to reach its zenith in terms of real world applications. To assist in this direction this paper provides an overview of the applications of satellite remote sensing to marine pollution investigations. The physical and logistical limitations are outlined and then the potential of remote sensing is illustrated by means of case studies. Methods for providing baseline inventories of coastal environments, and measurement of marine properties are reviewed. Pollutants in the marine environment are reviewed and are split into physical, chemical, biological and thermal. The future potential for a more effective use of remote sensing in operational projects is discussed.